The former Dutch international, 36, has a connection with the Blues having played there between 2001 and 2004, and also knows Benitez, who signed him for Liverpool in 2005.

Chelsea were quick to usher in ‘a new era’ under the leadership of Benitez before the Spaniard addressed his team for the first time this afternoon, as he took his first session at the Blues’ Cobham training ground.

The former Reds boss has taken over at Stamford Bridge on an interim basis until the end of the season after owner Roman Abramovich decided to axe Roberto Di Matteo following the Blues 3-0 defeat to Juventus.

Back at the Bridge: Boudewijn Zenden (Picture: PA)

Just 24 hours after the Champions League-winning coach was sacked, Chelsea’s official Twitter page gushed: ‘Good morning #CFC fans. A new era starts this morning, and Rafa Benitez is due to meet his players today. Updates to come.’

Benitez will likely be flanked at the team meeting by former Chelsea midfielder Boudewijn Zenden, who he has appointed as his assistant manager.

Blues midfielder Juan Mata showed slightly more sensitivity for the departed Italian, thanking him for his achievements on his official Facebook page.

‘It’s been a difficult day. Roberto Di Matteo is no longer our manager,’ said Mata yesterday.

‘I would like to thank him for all this time with us and wish him the best of luck for the future. As a player he has been a legend for the ‘Blues’.

‘With him as a manager we won our first Champions League. He will always be remembered. Good luck Robbie!’